He was the highest-ranking official who governed Malta. Paul and his companions were shipwrecked and dramatically rescued on Malta, and Publius's father fell ill. When Paul prayed, God healed Publius's father, and because of this, Publius provided much assistance to Paul's group when they left the island.
Acts 28:7In that region, Publius, the chief official of the island, had an estate nearby; he welcomed us and treated us kindly for three days.Acts 28:8Publius’s father was lying sick with fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and after praying, he laid his hands on him and healed him.Acts 28:9After this, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured.Acts 28:10They honored us in many ways, and when we were about to sail, they put on board all the provisions we needed.